
Indian Railways plans to launch its first hydrogen train by the end of 2024 in an effort to reduce carbon emissions and increase sustainability. Speaking at the Future Rail India 2024 conference organised by FICCI, Railway Board Member (Infrastructure) Anil Kumar Khandelwal said that this project aims to have a total of 2047 hydrogen trains by 50. This step is considered as a significant start towards achieving India’s green energy goals.
High Speed Train Project and Developments
Khandelwal also said that India's first bullet train is expected to be operational by 2027. The high-speed train project will bring major innovation to the country's transportation infrastructure. The aim of this project is to provide faster and more comfortable travel to passengers.
Kavach: Indigenous Train Protection System
Indian Railways is also expanding its existing train protection system Kavach to enhance safety. The system, which currently covers 1.400 km, will be expanded by another 3.000 km on the Delhi-Mumbai and Delhi-Howrah lines. This system will play a key role in preventing railway accidents and improving passenger safety. Bids have also been invited for an additional 3.200 km.
Infrastructure Development and Freight Logistics Targets
The GatiShakti Directorate is making efforts to accelerate infrastructure development in India. While four kilometres of track were laid per day in previous years, this number has now increased to over 14 kilometres of track laid per day. These developments indicate that Indian Railways is aiming to increase its share in the freight logistics market. The 2022 million tonnes of freight transported in 1.600 aims to increase to 2030 million tonnes by 31-3.000.
Clean Energy and Security-Focused Modernization
These projects by Indian Railways are considered as important steps towards modernising the railway network with the use of clean energy and increased safety measures. Innovative solutions like hydrogen trains will not only increase environmental sustainability but also enhance safety in passenger and freight transport.
In conclusion, Indian Railways is taking a significant step towards a sustainable future with its efforts to reduce carbon emissions and modernise its infrastructure. These projects will enable India’s railway network to meet international standards while also contributing to economic growth.